Sexual healing

When the sex drive of one partner in a couple suddenly diminishes it can cause problems. Although it’s often women who lose interest in sex, men can also be affected.
Male and female sex drives tend to be quite different too. Many men feel ready for sex whatever kind of day they have had. On the other hand, most women need to be in the right mood. Problems can arise when a woman starts to think her partner is being over-demanding, or he thinks she’s deliberately cold by not meeting his needs.
Help is at hand

There are a number of things you can do to help yourself (see ‘How to re-charge your sex life,’) but if this fails it’s always worth talking to your doctor about the problem – if only to be reassured that you’re normal. If your lack of sex drive is causing problems in your relationship, it may actually be your partner who needs to be more understanding and sensitive, and counselling can often help with this.

Your doctor will also be able to look into possible medical causes. For instance, any illness that drains your energy will also sap your sex drive. There are certain times in life when it’s natural to feel less interested in sex – like when a woman’s recently had a baby. Medical causes in women include hormonal problems like low oestrogen, which is common around menopause, amongst others. Many of these can be treated by your doctor.

Some prescription medicines also affect sex drive. For example, some antidepressants, certain hormonal treatments, and some medicines to control blood pressure are known to decrease sex drive, and your doctor may be able to suggest alternatives.
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